Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State has directed the State Commissioner of Police to immediately commence a stop and search of all political parties’ campaign convoys in the state for illegal arms – in a move many believe is targeted at opponents.

In a press statement signed by the Chief Secretary to Governor Ayade on Monday said, “This directive became imperative following security reports that indicate that some politicians and their Supporters were stockpiling arms and ammunitions ahead of the forthcoming Elections.

“The Governor assures the Citizens of adequate Security before, during and after the election”

Meanwhile, the Paramount Ruler of Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, His Royal Majesty Ntufam Emmanuel Oru has said the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Senator John Ewan-Enoh “stands no chance of winning the governorship election in March.”

He made the declaration while stating that the incumbent Governor, Ben Ayade will emerge victorious during the forthcoming election.

Speaking in Etung Local Government Area, the monarch said the “election will be a walk over for Governor Ben Ayade.”

Oru also lamented alleged false reports by the APC that he had endorsed Owan-Enoh.

He said: “Enoh and APC are lying to the public. He (Enoh) cannot win. Election is not by appearance. Election is of the mind and Ayade will win this election.”

The monarch, who described Ayade as his “very good friend,” said “there was no chance in hell that he will enlist his support for Enoh.”

Oru had recently led a delegation of high profile personalities of Etung, including the elder brother to the APC candidate, Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, to endorse Governor Ayade for second term.